Nicole Tan, Long before, and long beyond: In celebration of 700 years

To commemorate the college’s 700th anniversary, I chose to illustrate Elizabeth de Burgh, Lady of Clare, smiling towards passersby. She is set affront a view of Clare college from the bridge that should seem familiar, yet unfamiliar. Partially based on an early 1900s photo-view postcard, originally published by F. Frith & Co Ltd., I sought to bridge the past and the present into one scene that all Clare members may recognise. This choice of subject, etching-style, and sepia colouring all intend to highlight a connection to an enduring, historic legacy that we, even in small ways, are part of.

Digital illustration

Izzy Halliday, Under Pressure

This acrylic painting is my interpretation of how students manage varying social and academic pressures throughout their lives. It depicts a central figure surrounded by schedules, planners, revision cards and sticky notes, displayed haphazardly across a crowded desk. The scattered elements contrast with the figure, who exudes a sense of peace and serenity in spite of the chaos. I wanted this to be the focal point to represent the importance of staying grounded and how we can choose to detach our identity from material stresses, balancing external pressures with commitments to ourselves.

Acrylic paint on paper

Jo Costin, Behind the Scenery

There are a lot of background documents and drawings to the Old Court project which most people will never see. The scaffolding drawings are particularly colourful and interesting, so I've used a selection to show a bit of the behind the scenes work.

Collage on wooden board

Reece King, Opening the Chapel

One of the advantages to working as a night porter is that you have the opportunity to see the college in a different light. This is particularly the case with the chapel. This photo shows the chapel as it is opened at dawn.

Photography

Patrick Tweedie, First crossing of Clare Bridge

This painting is based on a photo I took on the 1st of October 2024 - my first day at Clare. The weather was not the best for exploring the college grounds, but nothing would dampen the sense of excitement I had for starting at university. Crossing Clare Bridge became part of my daily routine, and each time, still, it is no less special. Painting from this photo nearly a year after it was taken has allowed me to reflect on this momentous day, on my first year, and on the many crossings to come.

Acrylic on wood panel

Chloe Rowland, Just popping out

Senate House Passage, the view accompanying many a Clare student’s trip into town is captured bathed in the golden warmth of the evening sun.

Coloured pencil on paper

Chloe Rowland, The Prettiest College

The majestic symmetry of Old Court's honey-coloured facade is contrasted by the bright springtime greenery of the gardens, in this view captured from Clare Bridge.

Watercolour on paper